Abstract

Nanocrystal-(Ti 1− x Al x )N y /amorphous-Si 3N 4 nanolaminate films were deposited periodically via reactive magnetron sputtering technique. The effects of the thickness of multilayer period on the microstructure and mechanical properties were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopies, nanoindentation and scratching adhesion testing. Results indicate that the nanolaminate structure is uniform and good flatness interfaces under different multilayer periods. The nanolaminate films exhibited a maximum hardness when the multilayer structure had a period of λ=25 nm and were harder than monolayer (Ti 1− x Al x )N y or Si 3N 4 films of the same thickness. The critical scratching load of the nanolaminates was higher than that of monolayer specimens with the same thickness. The mechanisms of fracture and toughening of nanolaminate films are also discussed.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.